Idaho House Committee Passes Revised Community College Trustee Bill

After running into opposition from some Idaho community college trustees, a newly revised bill to create zones in Idaho community college districts passed through an Idaho House committee this morning.

Rep. Greg Chaney (R-Caldwell) introduced a measure in January that would have ditched at-large representation on Idaho community college boards in favor of board members representing specific districts. As an example, Chaney pointed to the College of Western Idaho Board of Trustees which currently has three members from Boise, another from Eagle and a fifth from Nampa.

"But we've crafted a new bill after the participation of the three community colleges," Chaney told the Idaho House State Affairs Committee, referring to meetings with representatives from CWI, the College of Southern Idaho and North Idaho College.

Under Chaney's new version of the bill, current trustees would be able to hold on to their at-large seats until the end of their terms. Meanwhile, the community colleges would set up new zones later this year, and all future trustees would represent the board in zones where they live.

"I compliment Rep. Chaney for his inclusiveness in the process. It made a huge difference for us," said CWI President Bert Glendon. "Our board voted last week to support this new bill."

With that, the House State Affairs Committee voted to send House Bill 512 to the full House for its consideration.